While conducting research for stories and books, I often uncover interesting facts and insightful tidbits from around the globe – some are unheard of, others shouldn't be heard of. So if you're sitting there wondering what to do on a long Sunday afternoon, I invite you to test your knowledge bank with these off-the-wall trivia questions. Have fun!
1) Other than a cow, name four animals that give milk.
2) What did the founder’s of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream originally plan to sell when they decided to go into business together?
3) The 20th amendment of the US Constitution if often referred to as the “____________” Amendment. Really, it’s nothing to quack about.
4) What does the word rot mean on a bottle of German wine?
5) This breed of dog, which originated in Ireland, possesses a curly coat that that may be any of several shades of blue.
6) What was the first raw commodity sold under a brand name? Clue: It’s still on store shelves.
7) What language is spoken by the Walloons in Belgium?
8) According to etiquette experts, what is the proper distance between two people engaged in conversation?
9) What creature can live nine days without its head?
10) There are “________” (number) ways to make change for a US dollar.
11) What soft drink was originally green?
12) What is the only US-based TV show that does not have a theme song?
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Thursday, March 15, 2007
The Humanities Totem Triptych Interpretation
Song of Illusion
Ear surrender to the music of the mind, as an untamed melody unfolds.
It is the air of wild embodiment that whispers to the soul.
No eyes to see, nor heart to feel yet the song of illusion cries.
Transcending back, oh feet dance mad to the tune of time’s disguise.
Grim hands bent taut pluck instrument strings, smile of ivory accord.
Mute spirits rest in bottles heed the strum of each new chord.
Stone chorus perched on trunk sing rash, celebration of buoyant rage.
Wicked manner devoid of defenses steps bold onto journey’s stage.
An artist of clay, an audience of essence, symbols of vast devotion.
Neither earth nor all her indifferences shall suppress unguarded emotion.
When moment passes and silence returns, brittle bones will take a seat.
A tale amidst old wine and dust, life’s work is now complete.
http://www.swartzentruber.com/13-arts-humanities-liberal-arts.htm
Ear surrender to the music of the mind, as an untamed melody unfolds.
It is the air of wild embodiment that whispers to the soul.
No eyes to see, nor heart to feel yet the song of illusion cries.
Transcending back, oh feet dance mad to the tune of time’s disguise.
Grim hands bent taut pluck instrument strings, smile of ivory accord.
Mute spirits rest in bottles heed the strum of each new chord.
Stone chorus perched on trunk sing rash, celebration of buoyant rage.
Wicked manner devoid of defenses steps bold onto journey’s stage.
An artist of clay, an audience of essence, symbols of vast devotion.
Neither earth nor all her indifferences shall suppress unguarded emotion.
When moment passes and silence returns, brittle bones will take a seat.
A tale amidst old wine and dust, life’s work is now complete.
http://www.swartzentruber.com/13-arts-humanities-liberal-arts.htm
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Can People Change...?
Can people change? If there was ever a million dollar question, this is the one. It’s been asked time and time again for as long as there has been a social aspect among human beings. But how close are we to having a definitive answer? Is there any solid proof that people are capable of such a large undertaking? As far as I can tell, we are no closer to knowing the truth about change than we are to knowing the reality of our existence. Seriously, human nature is a profoundly deep subject matter that often leaves us empty-handed and wondering.
And recently I’ve been doing just that – a lot of wondering, or maybe pondering is a better word, over the topic of change. I’m not a psychologist or an MD, but I have spent an inordinate amount of time over the years observing people. If you have never sat and just casually examined people before, I highly recommend it. It’s absolutely fascinating to watch the human race interact. From my observations, I have come up with a theory. I believe that once a person has developed certain passions or behavioral traits, they are absolutely unable to change. There is no grey area or shadow of a doubt…just an inability to fully remove the basic building blocks that make each one of us unique. Remember the old saying “You can take the girl out of the city, but you can’t take the city out of the girl?” Or what about, “Boys will be boys…” You get the idea.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) hit the nail on the head. They don’t boast about helping people change. Their protocol is that once an alcoholic has been sober for a period of time, they are considered a recovering alcoholic. But true to their nature, they stand behind the ‘once an alcoholic, always an alcoholic’ philosophy. According to AA, there is no way to make a ‘normal’ drinker out of an alcoholic. Nor is there any way to make a non-alcoholic into an alcoholic. Imagine. The best minds in the world have whittled away at the concept of change for centuries, but it took a little non-profit to figure it out.
At this point, you must be thinking that I have little faith in humanity. And that’s okay. But let me explain why I believe that change is an impossible feat for common man. It all starts with the very definition of the word ‘change’, which is to ‘become different in essence; losing one's or its original nature’. It’s kind of like when the Coca-Cola Company launched their New Coke brand back in 1984, insisting that they had changed the formula of the drink to better appeal to consumers. We all know that it had nothing to do with pleasing people and other than a public backlash, what really changed? New Coke still looked like the original Coke, tasted virtually the same as the original drink and exhibited the same Coca-Cola corporate image. So, again what changed? The truth is, not much. It was still Coca-Cola.
You see, people may want to change or they think that they have changed. But somewhere deep inside they are still left with these minuscule pieces of who they were before the so-called transformation. What I believe to be the truth is that people can adapt or mold themselves to a particular situation or a time in their lives. They can also have a change of heart or change their opinion or outlook on something. We are all entitled to our opinion, right? Well, as human beings, we are also entitled to change that opinion at anytime, day or night without warning. Women do this best, but that’s another story for another time.
Religion is often unwillingly dragged into the debate, but since I consider myself to be a self-proclaimed ‘believer in only those things that can be proven through science’ (And no, I am not a Tom Cruise crony.), I fail to see how religion plays any part at all. Other than Coca-Cola, change is for inanimate objects; not creatures that live and breathe life and hold onto memories. Therefore, religion should remain independent of change; because what it boils down to is adaptation and perception.
People can adapt to certain situations and their perception of others can change. But when all is said and done, people cannot change the very essence of who they are. There will always be temptation, and there will always be the inner knowledge of past experiences and actions, which prey on the ability to change. That’s why people rely on the alternatives, adaptation and perception, without even realizing that they are doing so.
Here are two examples. The first is your classic habitual liar. Despite endless attempts to tell the truth, this type of individual will always be tempted to lie and will at some point succumb to deceit again. For them, it’s the easier and more familiar path to take. The second example is the unfaithful spouse who makes an eternal promise to stop cheating. Given the right opportunity and presented with the right person, they may one day find that they are attracted again - physically or emotionally – to someone other than their wife or husband. Both personas are unable to change based on past experiences or behaviors. What they do is adapt to circumstances, whether it is an ultimatum given to a spouse who commits infidelity or a parent’s threat in the case of a teenager who lies continuously. Hostility and doubt are being cast at them from all directions. In response, they may take on a quieter tone, become eager to please or want to constantly interact with the individual that they have disappointed. In turn, this may or may not change the other person’s perception of them.
Confusing, but it does make sense. Change is inevitable and ever-present. But if you are convinced that you can change a person or that a person will change for you, think again. It’s not going to happen anytime soon. My best advice. Do your homework before becoming seriously involved with or marrying someone, hiring someone, engaging into a friendship with someone and so on. I said I would never do this, but I have to give props to Forest Gump. He said it best. “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you are going to get.” Just make sure that when you unwrap it, you don’t want to change it.
And recently I’ve been doing just that – a lot of wondering, or maybe pondering is a better word, over the topic of change. I’m not a psychologist or an MD, but I have spent an inordinate amount of time over the years observing people. If you have never sat and just casually examined people before, I highly recommend it. It’s absolutely fascinating to watch the human race interact. From my observations, I have come up with a theory. I believe that once a person has developed certain passions or behavioral traits, they are absolutely unable to change. There is no grey area or shadow of a doubt…just an inability to fully remove the basic building blocks that make each one of us unique. Remember the old saying “You can take the girl out of the city, but you can’t take the city out of the girl?” Or what about, “Boys will be boys…” You get the idea.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) hit the nail on the head. They don’t boast about helping people change. Their protocol is that once an alcoholic has been sober for a period of time, they are considered a recovering alcoholic. But true to their nature, they stand behind the ‘once an alcoholic, always an alcoholic’ philosophy. According to AA, there is no way to make a ‘normal’ drinker out of an alcoholic. Nor is there any way to make a non-alcoholic into an alcoholic. Imagine. The best minds in the world have whittled away at the concept of change for centuries, but it took a little non-profit to figure it out.
At this point, you must be thinking that I have little faith in humanity. And that’s okay. But let me explain why I believe that change is an impossible feat for common man. It all starts with the very definition of the word ‘change’, which is to ‘become different in essence; losing one's or its original nature’. It’s kind of like when the Coca-Cola Company launched their New Coke brand back in 1984, insisting that they had changed the formula of the drink to better appeal to consumers. We all know that it had nothing to do with pleasing people and other than a public backlash, what really changed? New Coke still looked like the original Coke, tasted virtually the same as the original drink and exhibited the same Coca-Cola corporate image. So, again what changed? The truth is, not much. It was still Coca-Cola.
You see, people may want to change or they think that they have changed. But somewhere deep inside they are still left with these minuscule pieces of who they were before the so-called transformation. What I believe to be the truth is that people can adapt or mold themselves to a particular situation or a time in their lives. They can also have a change of heart or change their opinion or outlook on something. We are all entitled to our opinion, right? Well, as human beings, we are also entitled to change that opinion at anytime, day or night without warning. Women do this best, but that’s another story for another time.
Religion is often unwillingly dragged into the debate, but since I consider myself to be a self-proclaimed ‘believer in only those things that can be proven through science’ (And no, I am not a Tom Cruise crony.), I fail to see how religion plays any part at all. Other than Coca-Cola, change is for inanimate objects; not creatures that live and breathe life and hold onto memories. Therefore, religion should remain independent of change; because what it boils down to is adaptation and perception.
People can adapt to certain situations and their perception of others can change. But when all is said and done, people cannot change the very essence of who they are. There will always be temptation, and there will always be the inner knowledge of past experiences and actions, which prey on the ability to change. That’s why people rely on the alternatives, adaptation and perception, without even realizing that they are doing so.
Here are two examples. The first is your classic habitual liar. Despite endless attempts to tell the truth, this type of individual will always be tempted to lie and will at some point succumb to deceit again. For them, it’s the easier and more familiar path to take. The second example is the unfaithful spouse who makes an eternal promise to stop cheating. Given the right opportunity and presented with the right person, they may one day find that they are attracted again - physically or emotionally – to someone other than their wife or husband. Both personas are unable to change based on past experiences or behaviors. What they do is adapt to circumstances, whether it is an ultimatum given to a spouse who commits infidelity or a parent’s threat in the case of a teenager who lies continuously. Hostility and doubt are being cast at them from all directions. In response, they may take on a quieter tone, become eager to please or want to constantly interact with the individual that they have disappointed. In turn, this may or may not change the other person’s perception of them.
Confusing, but it does make sense. Change is inevitable and ever-present. But if you are convinced that you can change a person or that a person will change for you, think again. It’s not going to happen anytime soon. My best advice. Do your homework before becoming seriously involved with or marrying someone, hiring someone, engaging into a friendship with someone and so on. I said I would never do this, but I have to give props to Forest Gump. He said it best. “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you are going to get.” Just make sure that when you unwrap it, you don’t want to change it.
Monday, March 12, 2007
A Thoughtful FYI
This morning I listened intently as a local radio station talk show described how a woman in Nevada went ape after her husband told her that she should lose a few pounds. Yes, she was arrested for assault after she literally whipped her beau. The weapon of choice? A metal whisk. You know...the kind you use for beating eggheads; I mean eggs. Now, what she did was very wrong, and I don't believe in violence being an answer to any of life's woes. But I do believe in taking all necessary safety precautions in protecting oneself. So men, I urge you to read this post. It could literally save your life.
Seven Things Women DON’T Want to Hear
1. “You look nice.”
Nice? Gosh, don’t go overboard. Open up Webster’s boys. If you’re going to tell us we look “nice”, why not use a power-packed synonym. Tell us we look enjoyable, pleasant or better yet skillful. Yes, they all mean the same thing as nice. Complimentary, huh? Want your leading lady to melt before your eyes? Make strong focal contact with her and in a seductive, “you take my breath away” voice, try something like “Baby, you look incredible.” Don’t worry. Despite what you have heard, women love to be called baby.
2. “You’re not ready, yet?”
If you dare ask that question, you better be wearing a good set of earplugs. Here’s a little secret. Mentally, most women can be ready in an instant. But when it comes to the physical side of things, and especially our appearance, we sometimes second guess ourselves – spending hours trying to decide what blouse to wear, how to style our hair and comparing shades of lipstick to the color of our shoes. If you find yourself still waiting for her to get ready, try a subtle approach. Let her know that you are ready whenever she is and that you’re going to catch the start of the basketball game on TV while you are waiting. Believe me. A little competition from your favorite sport or a Baywatch rerun will have her out the door before you can find the remote.
3. “That’s not how my mother makes it.”
This is where Lara Croft bursts out from behind the stove and shears your arm off. You see, women never want to be compared to the Queen. We all know how important mom is and that nobody on the planet can shake it in the kitchen like her. But if your gal is thoughtful enough to prepare an intimate dinner for the two of you, the least you can do is put a lid on it. You never know. Her flair in the kitchen just might surprise you. A compliment might even earn you a special spot underneath her apron. Hmmm….
4. “I’m sorry, I forget today was our anniversary. I’ll make it up to you.”
My best advice: Be prepared to show her a doctor’s note that verifies that absent mindness really is an illness. Okay, okay. Men have always been blasted for not being very truthful. Many uphold that nothing justifies lying. I agree that honesty is indeed the best policy. But there are those moments when telling the truth might terminate your entire existence and this is definitely one of them. NEVER, EVER admit to a woman that you forgot something as important as your anniversary – whether it’s been one-week, one-month or one-year that you are celebrating couplehood. You will not be forgiven. Even if we say its okay, somewhere down the road you can be certain that it will be used against you. If time permits, plan something special for later that evening. Pick up a beautiful bouquet of Rafael roses on your way home. Light a candle, break open a bottle of champagne and run a bubble bath for two. Include a handwritten note that tells her how much she means to you. At all costs, try to rectify the situation without admitting you forgot. For the love of god, I beg of you.
5. “You’re wearing that?”
Yes, end of subject.
6. “I can’t. I’m going out with the guys tonight.”
Yes, you are entitled to a guy’s night out. That’s not the problem. The problem is we want to feel like we are at the center of your universe. So, if something really important comes up on guy’s night out, make it a point to be there. There will be another guy’s night out. You might even check in advance to see if she’s planned anything. If not, ask her if she is okay with you going out with the guys on that night. No, you don’t need her permission. And women know that. It just shows your consideration for her.
7. “I don’t like your friends.”
This is a tough one. You see, her friends have always been there - through the thick and the thin. They’ve seen her through the worst of the worst and the best of the best. You may not like her friends, they may not like you. BUT you do have one thing in common. You all care about her. So, try to be civil, even if it means breaking out the duck tape to keep quiet. And if you can’t keep it in anymore, discuss your concerns in a quiet, civil manner with the lady in your life. She may or may not agree, but at least everything will be out in the open.
Seven Things Women DON’T Want to Hear
1. “You look nice.”
Nice? Gosh, don’t go overboard. Open up Webster’s boys. If you’re going to tell us we look “nice”, why not use a power-packed synonym. Tell us we look enjoyable, pleasant or better yet skillful. Yes, they all mean the same thing as nice. Complimentary, huh? Want your leading lady to melt before your eyes? Make strong focal contact with her and in a seductive, “you take my breath away” voice, try something like “Baby, you look incredible.” Don’t worry. Despite what you have heard, women love to be called baby.
2. “You’re not ready, yet?”
If you dare ask that question, you better be wearing a good set of earplugs. Here’s a little secret. Mentally, most women can be ready in an instant. But when it comes to the physical side of things, and especially our appearance, we sometimes second guess ourselves – spending hours trying to decide what blouse to wear, how to style our hair and comparing shades of lipstick to the color of our shoes. If you find yourself still waiting for her to get ready, try a subtle approach. Let her know that you are ready whenever she is and that you’re going to catch the start of the basketball game on TV while you are waiting. Believe me. A little competition from your favorite sport or a Baywatch rerun will have her out the door before you can find the remote.
3. “That’s not how my mother makes it.”
This is where Lara Croft bursts out from behind the stove and shears your arm off. You see, women never want to be compared to the Queen. We all know how important mom is and that nobody on the planet can shake it in the kitchen like her. But if your gal is thoughtful enough to prepare an intimate dinner for the two of you, the least you can do is put a lid on it. You never know. Her flair in the kitchen just might surprise you. A compliment might even earn you a special spot underneath her apron. Hmmm….
4. “I’m sorry, I forget today was our anniversary. I’ll make it up to you.”
My best advice: Be prepared to show her a doctor’s note that verifies that absent mindness really is an illness. Okay, okay. Men have always been blasted for not being very truthful. Many uphold that nothing justifies lying. I agree that honesty is indeed the best policy. But there are those moments when telling the truth might terminate your entire existence and this is definitely one of them. NEVER, EVER admit to a woman that you forgot something as important as your anniversary – whether it’s been one-week, one-month or one-year that you are celebrating couplehood. You will not be forgiven. Even if we say its okay, somewhere down the road you can be certain that it will be used against you. If time permits, plan something special for later that evening. Pick up a beautiful bouquet of Rafael roses on your way home. Light a candle, break open a bottle of champagne and run a bubble bath for two. Include a handwritten note that tells her how much she means to you. At all costs, try to rectify the situation without admitting you forgot. For the love of god, I beg of you.
5. “You’re wearing that?”
Yes, end of subject.
6. “I can’t. I’m going out with the guys tonight.”
Yes, you are entitled to a guy’s night out. That’s not the problem. The problem is we want to feel like we are at the center of your universe. So, if something really important comes up on guy’s night out, make it a point to be there. There will be another guy’s night out. You might even check in advance to see if she’s planned anything. If not, ask her if she is okay with you going out with the guys on that night. No, you don’t need her permission. And women know that. It just shows your consideration for her.
7. “I don’t like your friends.”
This is a tough one. You see, her friends have always been there - through the thick and the thin. They’ve seen her through the worst of the worst and the best of the best. You may not like her friends, they may not like you. BUT you do have one thing in common. You all care about her. So, try to be civil, even if it means breaking out the duck tape to keep quiet. And if you can’t keep it in anymore, discuss your concerns in a quiet, civil manner with the lady in your life. She may or may not agree, but at least everything will be out in the open.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
My Very First Blog!
Hi Everyone!
Welcome to my blog, which I have appropriately titled, "Crystal Clear Perceptions," because every now and then I like to give my take on something, like global warming or evolution or how a computer knows when to reset its clock for Daylight Saving Time. Really, how does it know? Is there a little gremlin inside that comes alive twice a year to tinker with Microsoft's internal workings? Does the government truly have us all by the satellite leash and at the click of a button can change time? Sounds crazy, huh? But this topic has mystified me for years, so much so that I asked my husband that very same question last night. Now usually he can answer any question that I throw his way. That is one of the reasons why I married him (other than the fact that he has an incredible physique, gorgeous blue eyes and is probably the only one who can put up with me long-term!). Brownie points? Who, me? :-) Seriously, he is quite the knowledge bank. He calls it "useless knowledge." I call it sexy and very impressive. This time, however, when I asked him about the computer thing, he let out a long sigh and replied, "I don't know." Great. Me and my excessive compulsive behavior will have to go on a bit longer wondering why.
Speaking of Daylight Saving Time... What the heckola?!?!?! For those of us who have trouble sleeping because our minds are like 24-hour Wal-Marts - they never close - Daylight Saving Time is worse than running out of coffee or trying to reach a customer service rep who actually wants to help. It really disrupts the natural balance of life and it's all for what, an hour. Please. It would seem to me that more energy is wasted when there are more hours of daylight, because more people would be apt to keep working, driving, playing and so on, which all uses an incredible amount of juice and slowly eats away the environment. Now, on the flip side, there are those of you who will contend that more daylight means fewer lights being turned on. I say to you - buy energy efficient lightbulbs. But that's just my two cents. I will survive this March Forward.
For those of you who don't know me, I love to write. It is my passion, my greatest love (other than my family) and a way to escape the daily humdrum of life. Writing also happens to be my job. This past weekend I had the wonderful opportunity of editing a children's book about learning the true meaning of destiny. What a story! The first time I read through it, I thought, "Wow!" I can't wait until it hits the shelves and I am able to pass the title along to you. Right now, however, my lips are sealed by a confidentiality agreement. My next project is a freelance article on vacations. I was given a tight deadline (what else is new), but it's worth it.
I can't forget to mention one of my daily responsibilities, WikiAnswers.com, which is now part of the wonderful and amazing Answers.com family. I had been a Supervisor (editor and sysop) since November of 2005 and was recently promoted to Community Administrator (managing editor). If you have never visited the site, I recommend that you take a moment and log on. The basic concept is wiki-style FAQs, where anyone can ask a question and anyone can provide a new answer, improve an existing answer or make a general comment. Since becoming part of Answers, the community has been growing by leaps and bounds. I'm am so proud to be a part of the success.
Until next time, stay well, keep fit and save a tree. :-)
Crystal
Welcome to my blog, which I have appropriately titled, "Crystal Clear Perceptions," because every now and then I like to give my take on something, like global warming or evolution or how a computer knows when to reset its clock for Daylight Saving Time. Really, how does it know? Is there a little gremlin inside that comes alive twice a year to tinker with Microsoft's internal workings? Does the government truly have us all by the satellite leash and at the click of a button can change time? Sounds crazy, huh? But this topic has mystified me for years, so much so that I asked my husband that very same question last night. Now usually he can answer any question that I throw his way. That is one of the reasons why I married him (other than the fact that he has an incredible physique, gorgeous blue eyes and is probably the only one who can put up with me long-term!). Brownie points? Who, me? :-) Seriously, he is quite the knowledge bank. He calls it "useless knowledge." I call it sexy and very impressive. This time, however, when I asked him about the computer thing, he let out a long sigh and replied, "I don't know." Great. Me and my excessive compulsive behavior will have to go on a bit longer wondering why.
Speaking of Daylight Saving Time... What the heckola?!?!?! For those of us who have trouble sleeping because our minds are like 24-hour Wal-Marts - they never close - Daylight Saving Time is worse than running out of coffee or trying to reach a customer service rep who actually wants to help. It really disrupts the natural balance of life and it's all for what, an hour. Please. It would seem to me that more energy is wasted when there are more hours of daylight, because more people would be apt to keep working, driving, playing and so on, which all uses an incredible amount of juice and slowly eats away the environment. Now, on the flip side, there are those of you who will contend that more daylight means fewer lights being turned on. I say to you - buy energy efficient lightbulbs. But that's just my two cents. I will survive this March Forward.
For those of you who don't know me, I love to write. It is my passion, my greatest love (other than my family) and a way to escape the daily humdrum of life. Writing also happens to be my job. This past weekend I had the wonderful opportunity of editing a children's book about learning the true meaning of destiny. What a story! The first time I read through it, I thought, "Wow!" I can't wait until it hits the shelves and I am able to pass the title along to you. Right now, however, my lips are sealed by a confidentiality agreement. My next project is a freelance article on vacations. I was given a tight deadline (what else is new), but it's worth it.
I can't forget to mention one of my daily responsibilities, WikiAnswers.com, which is now part of the wonderful and amazing Answers.com family. I had been a Supervisor (editor and sysop) since November of 2005 and was recently promoted to Community Administrator (managing editor). If you have never visited the site, I recommend that you take a moment and log on. The basic concept is wiki-style FAQs, where anyone can ask a question and anyone can provide a new answer, improve an existing answer or make a general comment. Since becoming part of Answers, the community has been growing by leaps and bounds. I'm am so proud to be a part of the success.
Until next time, stay well, keep fit and save a tree. :-)
Crystal
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